Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably BBQ style)
- 1 pound macaroni pasta
- 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with smoky BBQ sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly. Once heated, add shredded cheeses gradually, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and BBQ chicken mixture into the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated and sauce is evenly distributed.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For extra flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro.
- If using gluten-free pasta, ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Easy, Kid-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg